Exercise and Sport Physiology (BS)

This major provides a strong science-based curriculum of advanced courses in exercise physiology, exercise testing and prescription, strength and conditioning, and research methodology with an emphasis on the improvement and understanding of human performance. Laboratory activities, research, and clinical applications are components of this program. Majors will be prepared for careers in clinical research settings, strength and conditioning, and the health/fitness industry. The major also provides a strong foundation for future graduate studies in Exercise Science, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and other allied health related fields. In addition, the program prepares students to challenge select certification examinations such as the American College of Sports Medicine’s Certified Exercise Physiologist (EP-C) and the National Strength and Conditioning Association’s Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS).

3+2 BS/MS Degree Option
Students interested in graduate study in exercise science who have completed all prerequisite courses at the end of the 3rd year of study can apply to the MS degree program for their 4th year of study.  Students who complete all requirements will earn the BS in Exercise & Sport Physiology at the completion of their 4th year and the MS in Applied Exercise Physiology & Human Performance at the completion of their 5th year.

Exercise & Sport Physiology 

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Directions must total a minimum of 16 credits.

BS in Exercise & Sport Physiology Option

3+2 BS in EX, MS in Exercise Science & Sport Performance Option 

3+3 BS in EX, Doctor of Physical Therapy Option 

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Students who wish to matriculate early into the DPT program, consistent with the 3+3 EX to DPT framework, must earn a minimum grade of B- in all pre-requisite courses (BI 2110, BI 2130, BI 2120, BI 2140, CH 2335, CH 2340, PH 2110, PH 2120, MA 2300, PE 3720, EX 3580, EX 3860, social / behavioral science elective), earn a minimum science GPA of 3.3 (BI 2110, BI 2130, BI 2120, BI 2140, CH 2335, CH 2340, PH 2110, PH 2120, PE 3570, EX 3580), and a minimum overall GPA of 3.5, and complete the PTCAS application requirements during fall of year 3 in the EX program.

Check all course descriptions for prerequisites before planning course schedule. Course sequence is suggested but not required.

To complete the bachelor’s degree in 4 years, you must successfully complete a minimum of 15 credits each semester or have a plan to make up credits over the course of the 4 years.  For example, if you take 14 credits one semester, you need to take 16 credits in another semester.  Credits completed must count toward your program requirements (major, option, minor, certificate, general education or free electives).

BS Option 

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Directions should total 16-17 credits because SIDI is waived for BS Exercise and Sport Physiology.

3+2 Option
 

• Explain the acute and chronic effects of resistance and aerobic exercise on metabolism and the cardiorespiratory and neuromuscular systems. 
• Describe the pathophysiology and risk factors associated with exercise and disease.
• Demonstrate the ability to administer and interpret health appraisals, fitness, and clinical exercise testing for healthy, athletic, and special populations.
• Design and monitor exercise prescriptions for healthy, athletic, and special populations.
• Critically interpret current literature in exercise physiology. 
• Demonstrate proficiency in performing laboratory and field-testing techniques in clinical exercise physiology and strength and conditioning.
• Demonstrate knowledge of and show ability to carry out the research process in a collaborative environment.
• Apply theoretical knowledge acquired in the classroom to practical experiences in clinical and/or applied settings. 
• Demonstrate proficiency in performing laboratory techniques and subsequent analysis of data commonly used in a Human Performance Laboratory.
• Demonstrate knowledge of and show ability to carry out the research process in a collaborative environment.

Exercise and Sport Physiology prepares you for careers in the fitness industry, strength and conditioning field, human performance laboratory research, clinical exercise physiology, and others, such as the pharmaceutical industry. The degree prepares you for future graduate studies in Exercise Science and is designed to allow you the flexibility to complete prerequisites that may be required for professional post-baccalaureate programs such as Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Doctor of Chiropractic, etc.